These Townhouses in Tulum by Holland Harvey Architects Offer an Environmentally Conscious Alternative

Part of the evolving masterplan of Tulum on Mexico’s Caribbean coast, K’in is a boutique development of 8 Townhouses as family homes with community and sustainability at its core. The project aims to set a new standard for environmentally conscious design in the region.

From first principles, the team has been working with local landscape designers, botanists and ecologists to establish an ecological agenda for the project including tree retention, provision of habitats for native species and planting of local fruit plants.

The project has committed to the replacement of any trees that are removed as part of the works, and the landscape will be actively managed to encourage native flora and fauna to thrive. The footprint of the development has been minimised with 60% of the site retained as permeable landscaping or natural jungle floor.

The ground floor is defined by a singular stacked stone wall that frames and supports the upper levels. Formed of abundant local limestone, this striking architectural feature utilises construction waste material from other developments in the area.

In its architecture, the traditional boundaries between inside and out have been reworked; the ground floor is now an extension of the verdant landscaped gardens, and vice versa, whilst private pools embed- ded in the landscape are reminiscent of the iconic “cenotes” for which the area is well known.

The houses are designed to be passively ventilated with fully openable facades on two sides.  Clad in sustainably sourced local hardwood – full height, bi-folding brise-soléil on the upper floors provide privacy and minimise solar gain whilst allowing the natural breeze to cool the properties, mitigating the need for mechanical cooling.

Inside, double height spaces and balconies assist the free circulation of air and create opportunities to frame dramatic views of the surrounding jungle. The rooftop palapa offers a 360 degree panorama of the forest canopy and intimate views of the tropical wildlife. A fully equipped kitchen, lounge and dining area encourage residents to spend time amongst the trees: true jungle living.

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